Since the module was first built there have always been loco watering facilities at Rio Paleta. The original Tri-ang water tower was moved to Centrales and replaced with a smaller tower when the module was incorporated into the fixed layout. However, this was on the other side of the line and cast a shadow on the backscene which tended to spoil the image. I reckon the station looks better without it anyway.

The small tower has now been moved to Grande, where it fits into the scene better than the new tank I built yesterday.

The new tank will be installed instead at Cumbre, until now little more than a place name on the layout’s track plan but the provision of the water tower gives a reason for steam trains to stop there. Cumbre is a logical place, at the summit of the line, for trains in both directions to take water. Cumbre will also be provided with a telegraph office for train orders though probably something a bit more photogenic than the blue crinkly tin hut in the picture shown above. I also need to do something to hide the garage’s brickwork where it is so close to the track.

On the topic of water towers, I have “won” a vintage model on Ebay. My intention is to restore it for use at Cuarto de Pulgada but I will have to wait for it to arrive later this week before I know whether or not this will be feasible. The Hornby tinplate water tower appears to be lacking its chain and rubber hose but both should be easy enough to replace. The lot also includes a couple of other items which appear to be made of wood. I’m uncertain of their pedigree and may resell them individually if they’re any good, if not I’ll see what I can convert them into. Never throw anything away!